What is a Commercial Building Survey?

A commercial building survey provides you with much more than merely a financial asset valuation. It also provides a deep insight into the current condition of a building, including information on building defects, materials, construction and if there are any hazardous materials present, such as asbestos. The survey may also suggest any necessary corrective work that would support any claim for a price re-negotiation.

Commercial buildings can be substantially different from residential properties when it comes to surveys. The structure of the building may have been built using reinforced concrete, cladding, and steel, which required a completely different approach to that used for a domestic building survey.

Here at VKB Consultancy, we are independent RICS Chartered Surveyors. We provide impartial assessments to protect the interests of our clients. VKB consultancy follows the published guidelines, including the RICS Guidance Note – Building Surveys and Technical Due Diligence Commercial Property (hyperlink) which allows us to deliver a survey that serves as a respected tool, helping clients manage their commercial property.

A building survey offers valuable and professional guidance on any issues that may cause disruption to your interest in selling leasing or buying a commercial property. We provide a high level of attention to detail, ensuring that we fully understand the construction of a building, the current condition of the building and how it will meet the requirements of the client.

When planning a Commercial Building Survey, the first thing would be to discuss and review your circumstances and requirements. This will ultimately establish the level of advice that is required and whether this is in the context of an existing ownership. It will also determine whether it is the purchase of both a freehold and a freehold with tenant in situ, whether it is a new lease or an assignment of a lease. It is also to understand your proposals for the property.

Before organising an inspection, we will also review whether there may be any access issues. If you were planning to extend or alter the property once the deal has already been processed, you may also want us to include preliminary advice or feasibility reports. The content and format of the report can then be tailored to your requirements and a quotation provided accordingly.

If you are the owner of a commercial property, or you’re looking to purchase one to then enter a lease, contact us today. We can provide advice and recommendations regarding the condition of a commercial building!